Excelsior University Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

Excelsior University has 6 executives leading key functions including strategy, information technology, financial management, digital infrastructure, communications, and academic leadership.

Committed to providing flexible online education for working adults, Excelsior University empowers students through accessible degree programs that bridge the gap between professional experience and academic achievement.

Leadership Roles at Excelsior University

  • Chief Executive Officer - Nipur Shah
  • Chief Financial Officer - John Pontius
  • President - David Schejbal
  • Chief Information Officer - Fazuola Fazuola
  • Deputy Chief Information Officer - Eduardo Boersner
  • Chief Communications Officer - Erin Coufal
  • Nipur Shah - Chief Executive Officer

    Nipur Shah, the Chief Executive Officer at Excelsior University, directs the overarching strategic vision for the institution. By aligning academic offerings with the evolving needs of working adults, the Chief Executive Officer ensures that the university maintains its commitment to flexible, high-quality online education. Shah oversees the integration of institutional goals with market demands, fostering an environment where professional development meets academic rigor. This leadership role involves constant collaboration with the Board to secure long-term sustainability and growth across diverse disciplines. Through the implementation of innovative educational models, the Chief Executive Officer drives the mission of providing accessible pathways for career advancement. Nipur Shah actively monitors the competitive landscape to refine the university's value proposition, ensuring that every student receives the support necessary to succeed in a global economy while balancing personal and professional obligations.

    John Pontius - Chief Financial Officer

    John Pontius, the Chief Financial Officer at Excelsior University, manages the fiscal health and resource allocation necessary to sustain the institution's mission. By overseeing budgeting, financial planning, and long-term investment strategies, the Chief Financial Officer ensures that the university remains an affordable option for working adults seeking degree completion. Pontius directs the financial operations that support more than 30 disciplines, balancing the need for high-quality academic resources with the requirement for operational efficiency. John Pontius collaborates with executive leadership to identify growth opportunities and mitigate financial risks in the competitive higher education market. This role involves rigorous oversight of institutional assets to guarantee that funding aligns with strategic priorities, such as expanding online degree programs and enhancing student support services. Through disciplined financial management, the Chief Financial Officer secures the stability required to serve thousands of students across the United States.

    David Schejbal - President

    David Schejbal, the President at Excelsior University, provides the primary leadership and academic direction for the entire institution. By championing the mission of creating innovative educational options for working adults, the President ensures that the university remains at the forefront of online learning. David Schejbal oversees the academic integrity of the institution's 30-plus disciplines, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement. This role involves engaging with the Board, faculty, and external partners to advance the university's strategic goals and expand its reach to diverse student populations. By advocating for policies that support adult learners and military service members, the President drives the university's commitment to social mobility and professional development. Schejbal maintains a focus on long-term sustainability, ensuring that the institution continues to provide the accredited education necessary for students to move forward in their careers and personal lives.
    David Schejbal

    Fazuola Fazuola - Chief Information Officer

    Fazuola Fazuola, the Chief Information Officer at Excelsior University, architects the digital infrastructure required to support thousands of online learners. By managing complex data systems and learning platforms, the Chief Information Officer ensures seamless access to educational resources for students balancing work and family commitments. Fazuola Fazuola directs the implementation of secure, scalable technology solutions that enhance the overall student experience. This role involves coordinating with academic departments to integrate advanced digital tools into the curriculum, thereby facilitating efficient learning outcomes. By prioritizing cybersecurity and system reliability, the Chief Information Officer protects institutional data while enabling continuous innovation in remote education delivery. Fazuola maintains a focus on optimizing technical operations to support the university's mission of providing high-quality, accredited degree programs that remain accessible to a diverse, geographically dispersed student population.
    Fazuola Fazuola

    Eduardo Boersner - Deputy Chief Information Officer

    Eduardo Boersner, the Deputy Chief Information Officer at Excelsior University, executes the tactical deployment of information technology initiatives that support the university's online learning environment. By focusing on the day-to-day maintenance of digital platforms, the Deputy Chief Information Officer ensures that students and faculty experience minimal disruption during their academic journey. Eduardo Boersner manages the technical support teams responsible for troubleshooting and optimizing the user interface of the university's educational portals. This role involves bridging the gap between high-level IT strategy and practical application, ensuring that all digital tools remain aligned with the specific needs of working adults. By streamlining internal processes and enhancing system performance, the Deputy Chief Information Officer contributes to the overall efficiency of the institution. Boersner maintains a constant focus on improving the reliability of the virtual classroom, thereby supporting the university's commitment to accessible, high-quality education.

    Erin Coufal - Chief Communications Officer

    Erin Coufal, the Chief Communications Officer at Excelsior University, directs the institution's public relations, brand strategy, and outreach efforts. By crafting messaging that resonates with working adults and military personnel, the Chief Communications Officer ensures that the university's value proposition remains clear and compelling. Erin Coufal oversees the development of marketing campaigns that highlight the flexibility and quality of the university's online degree programs. This role involves managing internal and external communications to foster a strong institutional identity and maintain positive relationships with stakeholders. By analyzing market trends and student feedback, the Chief Communications Officer refines outreach strategies to attract individuals seeking career advancement or degree completion. Coufal coordinates with other executive leaders to ensure that all public-facing information accurately reflects the university's mission and academic standards, ultimately driving enrollment and supporting the institution's growth in the competitive education sector.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Excelsior University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Excelsior University?
    Excelsior University is led by Nipur Shah (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as John Pontius (Chief Financial Officer) and David Schejbal (President).
    Who is part of Excelsior University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Excelsior University includes leaders such as Nipur Shah (Chief Executive Officer), John Pontius (Chief Financial Officer), David Schejbal (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Excelsior University have?
    Excelsior University has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Excelsior University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Excelsior University includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, President, Chief Information Officer, Deputy Chief Information Officer.